YouTube is expanding its use of artificial intelligence, shopping and personalisation features with a series of new tools aimed at creators and viewers. The updates were announced at the platform’s annual Made on YouTube event in New York on Wednesday.
New AI tools for creators
YouTube Studio is getting new AI-powered features that can provide feedback on video drafts, create thumbnails matching a creator’s channel style and test up to three versions of a video edit.
A Gemini-powered assistant is also being introduced to Shorts and YouTube Create. It will help creators with tasks such as removing pauses, editing clips and synchronising music.
YouTube is also testing an opt-in AI comment moderation system that can adapt to individual creators’ preferences. Its likeness-protection technology is being expanded to detect both voices and faces, helping creators identify potential unauthorised use of their identity.
Shopping features expand to more countries
YouTube plans to expand its YouTube Shopping affiliate programme to 35 countries by the end of the year. More than 1.3 million creators are already enrolled, according to the company.
Creators in India and Brazil will soon be able to tag Amazon products in their content, while viewers in different markets will receive product recommendations tailored to their locations.
The platform is also expanding its Ask YouTube feature to handle shopping-related questions, product comparisons and follow-up interactions. Voice-based commands will also be available for television users.
Viewers get more control over recommendations
For users in the US, YouTube is introducing Custom Feeds across web, mobile and TV. The feature will allow viewers to create homepage tabs around specific interests, including documentaries, DIY content and other categories.
The latest features reflect YouTube’s wider effort to combine AI-assisted creation, personalised discovery and shopping within its video platform.